How do I value built models for insurance?

Insurance typically covers replacement cost, not second-hand value. Use the original kit cost plus aftermarket and paint costs, then add 30% for price inflation and availability. Keep receipts and photographs as evidence.

Are unbuilt kits worth more than built ones?

Generally yes, especially out-of-production kits. An unopened, unstarted kit in good condition often sells for more than original retail. Built models are harder to value as quality varies enormously.

Should I insure my model collection?

If your collection exceeds £500-£1,000 in value, it is worth checking your home contents insurance. Many standard policies have limits on hobby collections. You may need to declare it as a specific high-value item or take specialist cover.

How do I track my stash value over time?

Keep a simple spreadsheet with kit name, purchase date, cost paid, and current estimated value. Photograph each model and kit box. This serves as both an inventory and insurance record.

ModelCalcs.uk

Collection Value Calculator — Track Your Hobby Investment

Track and estimate the value of your model collection for insurance or sale purposes.

Built Models Count

Number of completed, built models on display or in storage

Avg Kit Cost (£)

Typical price you paid per kit before paint and extras

Avg Aftermarket per Model (£)

Photo-etch, resin, decals, masks per model — leave 0 if none

Avg Paint Cost per Model (£)

Primer, paints, varnish and weathering used per model

Unbuilt Kits (Stash)

Number of sealed, unstarted kits waiting in your stash

Avg Unbuilt Kit Cost (£)

Current replacement price per stashed kit — out-of-production kits often exceed original retail

Tools & Equipment Value (£)

Airbrush, compressor, cutters, sanders, lamp, cutting mat

Paint Stock Value (£)

Unused paints, primers, glues, fillers and consumables on the shelf

How We Calculate This

Calculates total invested value across built models, unbuilt stash, tools and supplies, then estimates a new-for-old insurance replacement figure.

Formula

Built models value = Count × (Kit cost + Aftermarket + Paint cost)
Unbuilt kits value = Count × Average kit cost
Total invested = Built + Unbuilt + Tools + Paint stock
Insurance value = Total invested × Replacement Cost Multiplier (default 1.3, i.e. +30% over what you paid)

The Replacement Cost Multiplier is adjustable in Advanced Options. The 1.3 default reflects a new-for-old (replacement cost) basis rather than second-hand resale value: extended-replacement-cost endorsements commonly add 10–50% over base value to cover price inflation and discontinued kits, so +30% is a reasonable middle estimate. It is a planning heuristic, not a quote — confirm cover with your insurer and keep receipts and photographs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.